Richard Lee Clark

Richard Lee Clark, 89, of McLeansboro, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 with his wife by his side.  He was born at home in Jefferson County, IL on October 26, 1938 to Columbus James “Doc” & Verdie Faye Clark.  On October 31, 1964, he married Garnet Ann Griesemer, who survives.

Richard worked many jobs over the course of his life.  He worked for the railroad, and for Caterpillar in Peoria. He also worked for Stewart’s in McLeansboro in the oil fields.  He loved to coon hunt and to take his grandkids fishing.  Richard was known as a hard worker who took care of his family, and loved spending time with them.

He is survived by his wife, Garnet Clark of McLeansboro; two sons: Rick Clark of Danville, IL and Tony (Vick) Clark of Danville; daughter: Diane Oakley of McLeansboro; five grandchildren: Jesse Clark, Anthony Clark and Chase Clark, all of Danville, Richard (Sarah) Oakley of Fort Moore, GA, and Devon Oakley of Johnston City, IL; two great grandsons: Brently and Axel Oakley of Fort Moore, GA; brother, Frank (Sandra) Clark of Dahlgren, and sister-in-law Joann Clark of Belle Rive. Several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, nine siblings and their spouses: Irene & Al Kelly, Ethel & Henry Overbey, Julia “Judy” & Bob Jones, Mary & Harvey Denham, Doris & Leonard Russell, Peggy & Lindel Bell, Catherine & Leland Spradlin, Russell “Pete” Clark and Harold Clark.

Graveside funeral services for Richard Lee Clark will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Richardson Hill Cemetery in Dahlgren with Rev. Ralph Wilton officiating.  Those attending the services are asked to meet directly at the cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to Gholson Funeral Home to assist the family with final expenses, and will be accepted at the graveside service or at Gholson Funeral Home in McLeansboro.

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